Everyone has emotional ups and downs; they are part of life. But sometimes the ‘downs’ seem to take over. If you think you are not coping very well with your day-to-day life, have a look at this useful, clear advice from the US Government Office on Women’s Health designed specifically for teenage girls. It will help to identify whether you may have a mental illness and, if so, what to do about it. You will also find information and advice on the site about a range of mental health issues – the navigation is very clear and you should be able to find the information you need on anything that is worrying you.

Mental illness is an illness like any other and it can be treated. Please do not be afraid to ask for help. If you think you might have a problem, it is much better to talk to someone rather than try to work it out for yourself. There are trained people who will know how best to help you and who will always talk to you in the strictest confidence. You are not alone.

If you need to talk to someone, other than your family or friends, here are the people who can help you in the UK:

your GP (who can refer you for specialist treatment, including counselling, if necessary)